Skip to main content

Spicy Calamari with Bacon and Spring onions

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant spicy calamari dish offers a sophisticated blend of textures and bold flavours, making it an excellent choice for a quick midweek meal or a light weekend lunch. The tender squid rings are quickly sautéed at a high heat to ensure they remain succulent, while the addition of dried chilli flakes provides a gentle, warming heat that perfectly complements the fresh, sharp bite of the spring onions.

As a naturally dairy-free recipe, this dish relies on the savoury depth of crisp bacon to provide a rich contrast to the delicate seafood. It is best served immediately while the calamari is at its most tender. For a complete meal, pair it with a crisp green salad or a small portion of steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavourful juices from the pan.

In this article:

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Spicy Calamari with Bacon and Spring onions

  • 675g scleaned medium squid

  • 110g bacon (about 5 slices), cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces

  • 160g chopped spring onions

  • 1/2 teaspoons dried hot red-pepper flakes

How to make Spicy Calamari with Bacon and Spring onions

Rinse squid under cold water, then pat dry between paper towels. Halve large tentacles lengthwise and cut bodies (including flaps, if attached) crosswise into 1/2-inch-wide rings.

Cook bacon in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden and crisp, then transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.

Toss squid with 1/4 teaspoons salt.

Heat fat remaining in skillet over high heat until very hot, then sauté squid with spring onions and red-pepper flakes until just cooked through, about 3 minutes.

Serve squid immediately, sprinkled with bacon.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.